John Madison Hoskins

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Madison Hoskins, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVL-23), when that vessel was hit by a bomb from an enemy aircraft in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Captain Hoskins, who was scheduled to take over command of the PRINCETON, remained on board despite suggestions from the Commanding Officer that he leave with all personnel not members of the salvage party. Until severely wounded, Captain Hoskins assisted in fighting fires despite continuous violent explosions. During one of the blasts, Captain Hoskins’ right foot was severed from his leg. The conduct of Captain Hoskins throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 339 (June 1945)